Loving and calm, the Scottish Fold personality is as endearing as its unique look. Without the distraction of upright ears, these cats’ round, soulful eyes are so dominant that they practically overwhelm you with their owl-like charm. The sweet, open expression does the rest; one look, and most people are in love. Even the straight-eared version of this breed—recently elevated to championship status in CFA—is equally appealing. And with long-haired and short-haired cats to choose from, who could ask for more? Scottish Folds are comfortable, charming homebodies who enjoy but do not crave human interaction. They are quiet but not placid, and will readily engage in a game of fetch, however, you can trust them not to start one at three o’clock in the morning. Sometimes reserved with strangers and other cats—who may consider their folded ears a sign of hostility—Folds have affectionate natures that will blossom when given the right kind of respectful, loving attention. They are quite intelligent and can be trained to do basic tricks. Cuddly and loving with their special people, Folds have very even temperaments and are usually patient with children. They are friendly, curious cats who may sit up straight like a prairie dog if something new and intriguing captures their attention. People-oriented, Folds will follow you around the house engaging in quiet, polite conversation, but will rarely get in the way of your daily activities. However, they do not do well being left alone for long periods of time. “Round” is the word most often used to describe the Scottish Fold. Medium in size, they have strikingly round heads due to the caplike fit of the folded ears. The eyes are very round, bright and clear. Even the folded ears (which have no effect on the cat’s hearing) should have rounded tips. The neck is short and blends into a well-padded body with strong, muscular legs. The tail should be medium to long but in proportion to the body. Flexibility of the tail should be gently, but frequently evaluated as signs of stiffness can be an early indication of other health problems. Scottish Folds do not require any special grooming. While they shed, their otherwise lush coats only require a weekly combing to keep it in good condition. Longer-haired versions of the Scottish fold are almost as easy to maintain, although they’ll require more frequent attention to prevent tangles and matting. Scottish Folds shed year-round, with heavier shedding periods during the spring and fall. If you do plan to bathe your cat, consult your breeder for the right products to use; every coat is slightly different.